Unemployment numbers rise

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - The recent layoffs announced at Caterpillar mean more unemployed workers in Tippecanoe County.

The Indiana Department of Workforce Development shows a spike in unemployment numbers for the first three months this year in Tippecanoe County.
In January, the number was 6,827.  In February, 6,868 and in March the number rose to 7,143.

These unemployment figures mean more and more cars are pulling into the parking lot at WorkOne in Lafayette. People we spoke with feel less and less hopeful about finding employment.

"I'd say with my age group, it's pretty tough. It's either under qualified, over qualified," said Lafayette resident Edgar Haynes, who is looking for a construction job.

"Everyday I hear so many people are getting laid off. I know when I first got laid off, they were saying unemployment didn't have enough money for funding at first. And I'm like, that's sad, so many people are unemployed," said Keonya Wells, who resides in Lafayette and hopes to work in the medical field. 

"I feel like veterans that have been to combat since they were kids should have some priority when they come back," said Battle Ground resident Kenton Hall, who hopes he can work as security for a local business.

These displaced workers said they are turning to Work One for help finding a job.

"The way they post your resume, you'll get hits for things. There's certain words that pop up that grab other companies' eye. They'll contact you instead of you just sending out endless information," said Haynes.

Lafayette mayor Tony Roswarski, who spoke with both Caterpillar and Wabash National after recent layoffs, said it should not change the shape of Lafayette.

"They all feel that once they get over this hump, things will get back to where they were and that they're strong and that the basic fundamentals are good. But when there is a global meltdown and when you have the situation in the banking industry where a lot of people that may buy those products, those Caterpillar engines those Wabash National trailers, they need financing," said Roswarski.
 

Purdue College of Technology will be holding an event for the displaced workers in Tippecanoe County.
Reach New Heights will be Saturday, May 16 from 10:00 a.m. to noon.  It will be held at the SIA Training Center in Lafayette.  WorkOne will be on site,  holding 20 minute resume, cover letter and job interviewing technique sessions.